16 Things You’ll Regret Buying from a Thrift Store

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 69% of thrift stores visited were found to be selling at least one hazardous product that had been recalled, banned, or did not meet current safety standards.¹

Before your next thrifting adventure, arm yourself with this essential guide to items you should always buy new.

Ready to know which seemingly innocent thrift store finds could be putting you and your loved ones at risk?

1. Car Seats

When it comes to your child’s safety, cutting corners is never an option. Secondhand car seats may have invisible damage from previous accidents, compromising their ability to protect in a crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strongly advises against using pre-owned car seats, as their history is often unknown. (ref)

Car seats have expiration dates, typically 6-10 years from manufacture, after which the materials can degrade. 

2. Mattresses

A good night’s sleep is priceless, but a used mattress can be a nightmare in disguise. These bulky items are prime real estate for bed bugs, dust mites, and other unwelcome guests that are nearly impossible to eradicate.

Beyond the ick factor, used mattresses may have lost their supportive properties, leading to poor sleep quality and potential back problems.

The Sleep Foundation reports that mattresses should be replaced every 6-8 years for optimal comfort and support. Investing in a new mattress is an investment in your health and well-being.

3. Helmets

Whether for biking, skating, or any other sport, helmets are designed to absorb a single impact before needing replacement. A secondhand helmet may have invisible cracks or weakened areas, compromising its protective abilities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports bicycle-related injuries account for over 500,000 emergency room visits annually, skimping on helmet quality is a risk not worth taking. (ref)

4. Cribs

Baby furniture may seem like a great thrift store find, but new is the only option when it comes to cribs. Safety standards for cribs have changed dramatically over the years, and many older models pose serious hazards.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that between 2011 and 2013, approximately 12,100 babies per year were treated in emergency rooms for crib-related injuries. (ref)

Cribs manufactured after 2011 must meet stringent safety requirements, including stronger slats and mattress supports. Your baby’s safety is worth the investment in a new, compliant crib.

5. Stuffed Animals

Those cuddly secondhand teddy bears may look harmless but can harbor unseen problems. Stuffed animals are notorious for collecting dust, allergens, and pests like bed bugs or fleas.

This can be particularly problematic for children with allergies or asthma. While it may be tempting to save a few dollars, opting for new plush toys ensures a cleaner, safer cuddle buddy for your little ones.

6. Upholstered Furniture

That vintage armchair might look charming but could hide some unsavory secrets. Upholstered furniture is notoriously tricky to clean thoroughly, making it a potential haven for bed bugs, dust mites, and other allergens.

Older upholstered pieces may also contain flame retardants that have since been banned due to health concerns. 

Investing in new upholstered items is best for peace of mind and a cleaner living space.

7. Makeup & Personal Care Products

Secondhand cosmetics and personal care items may seem like bargains, but they can come with a hefty price tag for your health. Even if they appear unused, these products can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms.

The Food and Drug Administration warns that sharing makeup can lead to serious eye infections and skin problems. (ref) Moreover, cosmetics have a limited shelf life once opened, with mascara lasting only 3-6 months and lipstick up to a year. 

Regarding items that come into direct contact with your skin, it’s always best to buy new and know exactly what you’re getting.

8. Underwear & Swimwear

This one might seem obvious, but it bears repeating: never buy secondhand underwear or swimwear. These intimate garments come close to sensitive body areas and can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms even after washing.

While snagging a designer swimsuit at a fraction of the cost may be tempting, the potential health risks far outweigh any savings. 

Treat yourself to new undergarments and swimwear – your body will thank you.

9. Shoes

While vintage shoes may look stylish, wearing someone else’s footwear can lead to more than blisters. Used shoes have already conformed to the previous owner’s feet, potentially causing discomfort and alignment issues for a new wearer.

Podiatrists warn that wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to many foot problems, including plantar fasciitis and bunions. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can lurk in used footwear. 

Investing in new shoes that properly support your unique foot shape is best for your foot health and comfort.

10. Baby Bottles & Sippy Cups

Secondhand is a no-go for items that go into your baby’s mouth. Baby bottles and sippy cups can develop tiny cracks and crevices that harbor bacteria, even after thorough cleaning.

The AAP recommends inspecting bottles regularly for signs of wear and tear and replacing them if they show cracks or chips or are cloudy or discolored.

They also advise cleaning bottles thoroughly after each use and sterilizing them periodically, especially for younger infants. Your baby’s health is worth the investment in new feeding gear.

11. Hats

That vintage fedora might look dapper, but it could be harboring more than just style. Hats come into direct contact with the scalp and hair, making them potential carriers of lice, fungal infections, and other scalp issues.

While not all used hats will cause problems, the risk is not worth taking. Treat yourself to a new hat guaranteed to be free of unwanted hitchhikers.

12. Laptops & Electronics

While a secondhand laptop might seem like a great deal, it often comes with hidden costs. Used electronics may have outdated software, compromised batteries, or internal damage that’s not immediately apparent.

Older electronics may not be compatible with current software or security updates, leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats. When it comes to technology, investing in new often pays off in the long run.

13. Tires

Saving money on used tires might seem smart, but it can be a dangerous gamble. Tires degrade over time, even if they have plenty of treads left. The rubber compounds break down, potentially leading to blowouts or reduced traction.

Used tires may have invisible damage from improper storage or previous accidents. Since they are the only part of your car that touches the road, buying a new one is always best for optimal safety.

14. Vacuum Cleaners

A secondhand vacuum might seem like a steal, but it could end up sucking more than just dirt. Used vacuums often have reduced suction power due to wear and tear on motors and filters. They may also harbor dust, allergens, and pests from previous homes.

Older models may also lack modern features like HEPA filters, which improve air quality. Investing in a new vacuum cleaner is worth it for a cleaner home and better air quality.

15. Bed Pillows

While grabbing a plush pillow from a thrift store might be tempting, used bed pillows are a definite no-go. These intimate items absorb sweat, skin cells, and oils over time, creating an ideal environment for dust mites and other allergens.

Even after washing, old pillows can retain allergens and lose their supportive properties. Always opt for new pillows for a good night’s sleep and better overall health.

16. Cookware with Non-Stick Coatings

That set of non-stick pans might look like a bargain, but secondhand cookware with non-stick coatings can pose health risks. Scratched or damaged non-stick surfaces can release harmful chemicals when heated.

Older non-stick coatings may contain PFOA, a chemical phased out of production due to health concerns. Invest in new cookware with modern, safer, non-stick technologies for safer cooking and peace of mind.

By being selective in your secondhand shopping, you can enjoy the thrill of the hunt while ensuring your health and safety and that of your loved ones. 

Source:

1.  U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission